Electronic Arts has confirmed (though they mysteriously broke their own embargo) that the company is bringing the classic Wing Commander franchise to the popular Xbox Live Arcade service as Wing Commander Arena The game, which will launch this summer, will supposrt 16 players, making it the largest multiplayer XBLA combat game to date.
According to EA, Wing Commander Arena is a “fast-paced space combat game where players can team up to attack other teams of ships.” Sounds pretty much how I’d expect a Wing Commander game to pan out, though I’ll miss Malcom McDowell and Mark Hamill. EA adds that players will compete online for frag count, high score and dueling stats.
Being developed by both EA and Gaia Industries, Wing Commander Arena will feature four styles of play: single player, multi-team, multiplayer free for all, and multiplayer duel. The game will also sport eight maps that include team maps, free for all maps, and dueling maps, allowing for either quick matches or long drawn out galactic struggles.
“We’re really excited to deliver unparalleled multi-player arcade action,” said Chip Lange, EA vice president. “The design for Wing Commander will appeal to both long-time fans of the franchise and immediately engage anyone who wants the melee style action of an arcade shooter.”
